Is Coconut Sugar a Healthier Alternative to Regular Sugar?

Everybody is looking for healthier options to replace sugar as excessive consumption can lead to various health complications. And as Indians, our love for sweet has led us to seek replacement for refined sugar. While there are several alternatives available in the market, they do cause equal harm. However, coconut sugar is considered to be a natural, healthier choice to opt for. Take a look at the article to find out is coconut sugar healthy and whether it offers any benefits.

What is coconut sugar, and how is it made?

Coconut sugar also referred to as coconut palm sugar, is a natural sweetener collected from the sap of the coconut palm tree. Here's how it is made in a natural two-step process:

1. A cut is made on the flower of the coconut palm, and the liquid sap is collected into containers.

2. The sap is placed under heat until most of the water has evaporated. The end product is brown and granulated with a color similar to that of raw cane sugar. However, the particle size is typically smaller or more variable.

Is it more nutritious than regular sugar?

Now the important question: Is coconut sugar healthy? Here are some facts you should consider:

• Calorie content

A teaspoonful of coconut sugar has almost the same calories as ordinary sugar. So, from a calorie standpoint, there’s no significant benefit.

• Glycemic Index (GI)

GI is a system that ranks carbohydrates based on its impact on blood sugar levels, and coconut sugar has a slightly lower GI as compared to regular sugar. This might benefit people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar, but the difference is so minimal that it may not matter at all.

• Trace nutrients

Regular sugar contains no nutrients. Coconut sugar, on the other hand, retains some trace amounts of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, and zinc from the coconut palm. However, the quantity of nutrients retained is very less. Hence, you would have to consume more of it for any substantial nutritional benefit thereby negating the effect due its high calorie content.

So, is coconut sugar healthy? Not quite. While coconut sugar may sound healthier due to its minimal processing and slightly lower GI, it is still very similar to regular sugar. Its high-calorie content provides no significant nutritional benefits. You may choose coconut sugar when you want a natural sweetener with a different taste.